Understanding Systems for Success

Your output is only as strong as the system that supports it — so what’s yours running on? Once you understand how inputs, processes, and outputs silently drive your day, you’ll start to see hidden patterns behind your best (and worst) performance.

In this episode, we unpack the concept of systems thinking and how it quietly powers everything from your morning routine to your biggest career wins. You’ll learn the three types of systems everyone needs, how to spot weak links in your day, and how to make small tweaks that lead to massive long-term gains — all without adding more to your plate.

Masterclass.com/TPS for at least 15% off any annual membership.

You can find links to everything that we share in the show notes at theproductivityshow.com/.

Cheat Sheet:

Become a member of TPS+ and get ad-free episodes a week before anyone else with other great bonuses like the famous “One Tweak A Week” shirt.

• Top 3 Productivity Resources [01:18]  
• What actually is a system—and why seeing them everywhere changes everything [03:50]  
• Can anyone become a systems thinker, or is it just how your brain works? [07:58]  
• The 3 kinds of systems you need to build a productive, balanced life [09:57]  
• Personal systems: how small routines shape big results [11:22]  
• Work systems: task management, delegation, and a bit of AI magic [29:01]  
• AI notetakers—game-changer or meeting menace? [33:38]  
• Our calendar setup and a few hot takes on scheduling tools [38:50]  
• Strategic systems: the underrated rituals that keep you focused long-term [42:18]  

Links:

• Masterclass
• 25X Productivity Coaching
• Work the System: The Simple Mechanics of Making More and Working Less
• The Goal: A Process of Ongoing Improvement
• Loom
• Eight Sleep
• Lindy
• Granola
• Fantastical
• Productivity Academy
• The Productivity Show on Youtube
• The Productivity Show Youtube Clips
• Become a member of TPS+
• Take the Productivity Quiz

If you enjoyed this episode, follow the podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, Overcast, Pocket Casts or your favorite podcast player. It’s easy, you’ll get new episodes automatically, and it also helps the show. You can also leave a review!